The Atlanta Braves secured a strong victory over the San Diego Padres, powered by Grant Holmes‘ outstanding pitching performance on a day when the Padres’ ace Michael King was unexpectedly scratched from the starting lineup. The game took place following a tough loss for Atlanta, and Holmes’ solid outing helped the Braves even the series in this intense matchup.
Since King, who had been delivering impressive performances this season, was sidelined, the Padres were forced to rely on their bullpen from the start, which gave the Braves an early advantage going into the contest. Holmes used this opportunity to control the game and keep the Padres’ offense at bay.
Early Game Highlights and Offensive Breakthrough for Atlanta
Grant Holmes allowed just a softly hit single and a double in the first inning, managing to keep the score scoreless while issuing only two strikeouts during a clean second inning. Although the Braves initially left two runners on base, they struck first in the second when Nick Allen drove in a run with an infield single.
The Padres managed to score a run in the third inning, but Atlanta’s offense responded strongly in their half of the third. The lineup featured contributions from Drake Baldwin, Marcell Ozuna, Matt Olson, Austin Riley, and others. Key hits included a solo homer by Olson and an RBI bunt single by Ozzie Albies that helped stretch the Braves’ lead to 3-1.
Baldwin consistently got on base, while Olson continued his impressive hot streak early in the season, maintaining strong offensive numbers compared to last year.
Matt Olson’s Hot Streak Continues
Matt Olson’s 12th home run of the season came in his 51st game, reflecting a slightly improved batting average and OPS compared to his pace during the same period in 2023.
“Olson’s 12th homer comes in his 51st game of this season. He was hitting .232 with 14 homers and a .877 OPS through the first 51 games of his 54-homer season in 2023. He’s currently hitting .247 w/ a .841 OPS. pic.twitter.com/17MKAlgYOh” —Mark Bowman
Holmes Maintains Control Through Seven Innings
Holmes continued to pitch effectively, cruising through innings with minimal damage. By the fifth inning, Baldwin tallied his third hit of the day, showcasing his consistency at the plate. Holmes allowed only one run over seven innings, striking out six batters and issuing a single walk, capping off a dominant afternoon on the mound.
In the sixth inning, Nick Allen set the tone with a walk, followed by a towering home run from Ronald Acuña that expanded Atlanta’s lead to four runs, further tilting the contest in the Braves’ favor.
Atlanta Extends Lead and Secures Victory
The Braves’ offense added insurance runs in the seventh inning when Austin Riley was hit by a pitch. Consecutive singles from Verdugo, Albies, and Michael Harris pushed the lead to 7-1, creating a commanding advantage.
Reliever Enyel De Los Santos contributed by pitching a scoreless eighth inning, aided by a defensive play from Harris. Scott Blewett closed out the game in the ninth, managing some control struggles but ultimately preserving the shutout frame to seal the win for Atlanta.
Despite Padres’ efforts, Drake Baldwin’s leadoff walk in the eighth was the last bright spot in an otherwise quiet inning for San Diego’s offense.
Looking Ahead: Decisive Rubber Match Awaits
With the Braves leveling the series, fans can look forward to a decisive rubber match scheduled for tomorrow at 4:10 PM ET. Grant Holmes’ strong pitching leads Braves victory momentum into the final game, making it a highly anticipated showdown between Atlanta and San Diego.